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​Lwah Ndlunkulu "Eyami"

Lwah Ndlunkulu "Eyami"

(YouTube)

The Best South African Songs Right Now

Featuring new South African music from Lwah Ndlunkulu, Nomfundo Moh, Aubrey Qwana, Oscar Mbo, DJ Kent and more

Here are the South African songs and music videos that caught our attention this month.


Lwah Ndlunkulu "Eyami"

Following her impressive rise and success with the singles “Ngiyeza” and “iThuba,” Inkabi Records’ first lady, Lwah Ndlunkulu, is back with another hit record. Much like her previous tracks, the romantic ballad is produced by Xowla (aka Stallion) and has backing vocals from Siya Ntuli. The Afropop star is clearly having a moment as she recently walked away with the Song of The Year award and Artist of The Year trophies at the inaugural Basadi in Music Awards.

Aubrey Qwana "Tshitshi Lami"

After multiple hit singles and three EPs later, Ulundi-born Afropop artist Aubrey Qwana has finally gifted his loyal following with his debut album, Mkabayi, named after his mother. The album is filled with resonant storytelling and lamentations on various themes. At the same time, fusions grounded by the sounds of mbaqanga and Afro-soul permeate it with the likes of Sjava, Makhadzi, Mnqobi Yazo, and Anzo as some of the guest features. Since breaking into the scene with “Ngaqonywa” in 2018, Qwana has proven to be a formidable voice within the contemporary Afropop scene, and Mkabayi solidifies his positioning.

Fezeka Dlamini, Nomfundo Moh & Naledi Aphiwe "Uyanginjabulisa"

Rising acts Fezeka Dlamini and Naledi Aphiwe team up with fellow KZN singer/songwriter Nomfundo Moh on their latest single, “Uyangijabulisa.” Relatable, sincere lyrics and heartfelt crooning made a snippet of the song go viral on TikTok before it got officially released.

Oscar Mbo x KG Smallz “Yes God Remixes” feat. Dearson

A year since its initial release, Oscar Mbo has given his single “Yes God” with KG Smallz and Dearson a new lease of life through a remix package. The 10-track project contains reworked versions of the song by the likes of Kabza De Small, Kelvin Momo, Morda, Thakzin, CocoSA and more.

DJ Kent “Weekent Sun Sets (Horns In The Sun Remix EP)"

Acclaimed multi-mixer/producer DJ Kent has given his 2022 track “Horns In The Sun” remix treatment, courtesy of Morda, Thakzin & Brenden Praise, Chronical Deep and China Charmeleon. While he may not be as active as he was in the 2000s and early 2010s, Kent’s prowess for producing quality music has not left him and enlisting younger talents proves that he is still tapped in.

DJ Tira 'Malume Way'

Afrotainment head honcho and Durban house pioneer DJ Tira, affectionately known as Malume, is back with another full-length project, aptly titled Malume Way. With more than 20 years active in the scene, the virtuoso has remained consistent and relevant throughout, whether through his own works or by discovering and shining a light on other rising talents. Malume Way is no exception; on it, Tira highlights the different styles of gqom and taps into the varied facets of South African house music by working with established and rising producers.

Tshego "Buya" ft. Raspy

Tshego teamed up with burgeoning vocalist Raspy on his amapiano-inflected new single “Buya.” The pair previously appeared together on the multi-platinum certified hit “Sondela” alongside Venom, Shishiliza, Yumbs, Blxckie and the late Riky Rick. “Buya” follows in the same realm of blending ethereal R&B vocals and melodies with the groove of ‘piano.

Makhadzi Entertainment "Movie" ft. Ntate Stunna, Fortunator & Dj Gun Do

Earlier in the year, Makhadzi announced and launched her record label by releasing a two-single drop, “Dear EX (Zwininakele) / Niazwifha,” which were instant hits with her fans. This month, she (t/u Makhadzi Entertainment) returned with another blockbuster track, “Movie,” featuring Ntate Stunna and her signees Fortunator and DJ Gun Do SA.

Kaylow "24 Hours"

Kaylow’s “24 Hours” went viral a few months ago and became inescapable on social media. To capitalize on the new-found fandom and hype, the singer-songwriter has put out visuals for the romantic ballad that has entangled the hearts of many people in relationships.